While attending a speaking engagement, my cell phone suddenly started ringing repeatedly. I quickly muted the volume until I finished, anxiously moving to a remote location to see who was calling upon completion of my speech.
Eight people called within a two minute time period, all from various cities in the United States, but two callers from the New Orleans area. I reached one of the callers, a good friend, an attorney from New Orleans.
The first thing he shouted was,"remember that cop that was suspected of raping children you told me about, well he was just arrested by the New Orleans Police Department for rape". He continued, " you told me he'll rape again".
I had to think back some years ago, and conjure up details of the cop in question, as I've made that statement many times, about many cops, then I sudddenly remembered... Officer Christopher Buckley, of New Orleans 5th district, the same district I learned the tactics of becoming a bad and corrupt cop!
After learning the details of his arrest from my friend, I sat their for a minute or two and pondered about this arrest. Then I suddenly remembered that I had to go and greet and thank my audience and listeners, and extend other pleasantries.
In 2001 and 2003, this officer was alleged to have had inappropriate relationships with a 16 year old, as well as young girls 12 and 8 , that's right, an 8 year old. Both times the district attorney's office refused to prosecute.
Police Chief Warren Riley stated, "this officer will never walk the streets again". Officer Buckley was a ten year member of the police force, and was charged with three counts of rape and three counts of oral sexual battery, with a 13 year old child!
My take:
Yes, for a number of years, I've been speaking out ( sometimes I feel on deaf ears) about bad cops in New Orleans. This is happening across the country, but for some reason especially in New Orleans. I've even resorted to naming names to get my point across to lawyers and others in law enforcement. This guy was on my list, along with five others.
The criminal urge can be placed on hold for a little while, but the true nature and inate desire of all criminals will resurfaced in a given time, usually when one least expects.
I apologize as a human not only to this victim and her family, but to the other victims who never had their day in court... a true injustice!
Mothers and fathers, watch your children, and trust no one with your precious jewels!
